In a bid to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda has not only increased food security but also encouraged business opportunities within the sector.
During a ministerial sectoral update presentation in Abuja commemorating President Bola Tinubu’s first anniversary, significant strides made under the agenda were call attention to.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari CON said the ministry’s research efforts have led to the development of 23 improved crop varieties and the enhancement of storage facilities.
Furthermore, over 3,350 extension agents and 20,755 farmers have undergone training facilitated by e-extension services.
“Infrastructure improvements been a cornerstone of the agenda, with the construction of 77.8 km of asphalt roads, 130.9 km of earthen roads, and the provision of 102 motorized and solar-powered boreholes, enhancing accessibility and resource availability for farmers,” he said.
Kyari lauded the comprehensive approach of the ministry, emphasizing that the ministry’s comprehensive approach—ranging from enhancing food security and empowering farmers to driving economic growth—sets a strong foundation for continued progress and sustainable development.
He said the an ambitious dry season farming initiative, cultivating 118,657 hectares of land across 15 states into productive wheat fields. “This monumental effort supported 107,429 farmers and resulted in an impressive harvest of 474,628 metric tonnes of wheat, valued at approximately N309 billion.”
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According to Kyari, the success of the dry season farming initiative is a testament to the ministry’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“This achievement has helped stabilize food prices, ensured food security, and provided a reliable income for farmers.
“Additionally, by fortifying crops with Vitamin A, the ministry has enhanced the nutritional value of the produce, addressing malnutrition and improving public health.
“To further ensure food availability and stabilize prices, the ministry released 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities from the Strategic Food Reserve through NEMA. Moreover, 58,500 metric tonnes of milled rice were distributed across all states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),” he said.
Kyari said, to combat food inflation, the ministry distributed over 60,000 metric tonnes of improved seeds, 887,255 metric tonnes of seedlings, and 501,726 litres of agrochemicals.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria provided us with 2.15 million bags of fertilizer for free distribution to farmers.Furthermore, bolstered these efforts.
Additionally, enhanced resources for Agro Rangers and other security agencies have improved farmland security, ensuring a safer environment for agricultural activities,” he said.
Kyari further said, modernizing agriculture has been a key focus under his leadership, the ministry have signed MOUs with John Deere and Tata Africa to assemble and supply 10,000 tractors and 100 combine harvesters.
“Our partnership with Brazil has led to the establishment of mechanization hubs and the supply of 2,000 Belarus tractors.
“We are committed to empowering our youth through the establishment of adopted villages and schools, vocational training programs, and youth employment initiatives in agriculture.
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“We have also completed a large-scale integrated rice processing mill in Niger State.
“We are building partnerships to enhance climate-smart agriculture, foster public trust, and collaborate with international entities for trade, investment facilitation, and rural infrastructure development.
“These achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, ensuring food security, and driving economic growth.
“We are proud of the progress made and look forward to continued advancements in the coming years,” he said.
